Roses have a reputation for being high-maintenance, but the beauty of a thriving rose bush is worth it. Here are a few tips to make sure your roses stay healthy in all weather.

Give plenty of sun. Roses prefer a full sun environment, although they will also grow in partial shade if you don't have an area that gets sunlight at all times of day.

Loose, nutrient-rich soil. When preparing a bed for your roses, be sure the soil is loose and very rich. You'll need to fertilize the soil continuously every two or three weeks.

Balance your nutrients. A fertilizer heavy in phosphorous will promote large, healthy blooms, while one heavy in nitrogen encourages the healthy growth of leaves and roots.

Water frequently. Roses thrive in lots of water. However, they don't like to grow in a puddle--so make sure your soil is loose enough to allow the water to drain.

Take care of weeds. Use a heavy mulch layer to block out weed growth around your rose bushes; as much as ten centimeters of mulch is best.

Prune regularly. Rose bushes love to be pruned. Allow a handful of primary stems to grow, with room between them for air to flow.

Watch for insects and disease. Roses are highly vulnerable to both insects and diseases. There are many signs and symptoms of different diseases and insect infestations.

Roses do require quite a bit of upkeep. But if you provide them with plenty of sunlight, water and nutrients and promote healthy growth by planting in an area with good air circulation, pruning regularly and watering near the base of the plant, your roses are more likely to stay healthy and disease-free--and reward you with big, beautiful blooms.